Aside from all the playful fun, those slippery spittin’ seeds give you, there’s a bonus you get. Watermelon has awesome health benefits as well. If you’re looking for longevity in your life, live where they have plenty of melons!
Watermelon contains only 46 calories per cup and is high in vitamin C, vitamin A, and many healthy plant compounds.
You probably already know it keeps you well hydrated as it is mostly water, but here are some things that might be of interest to you.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Watermelon?
- Vitamin C: 21% of the Reference Daily Intake (RDI)
- Vitamin A: 18% of the RDI
- Potassium: 5% of the RDI
- Magnesium: 4% of the RDI
- Vitamins B1, B5, and B6: 3% of the RDI
Researchers have studied lycopene and other individual plant compounds in watermelon for their anti-cancer effects.
Studies may be inconclusive in some aspects, but nobody ever dies from eating watermelon (that we know of) so we’re going to stay optimistic.
Lycopene – Lowers IGF
Though lycopene intake is associated with a lower risk of some types of cancer, study results are mixed. The strongest link so far seems to be between lycopene and cancers of the digestive system (Source).
It appears to reduce cancer risk by lowering insulin-like growth factor (IGF), a protein involved in cell division. High IGF levels are linked to cancer (Source).
In addition, cucurbitacin E has been investigated for its ability to inhibit tumor growth. All this means you might be heading towards a longer, healthier life. Did you know studies now show fasting adds years to your life as well?
Two vitamins in watermelon — A and C — are important for skin and hair health. Vitamin C helps your body make collagen, a protein that keeps your skin supple and your hair strong.
Vitamin A is also important for healthy skin since it helps create and repair skin cells. Without enough vitamin A, your skin can look dry and flaky.
Watermelon is a hedge against diabetes.
Here’s another health benefit when you consume watermelon – your kidneys convert one amino acid, L-citrulline, into another amino acid, L-arginine.
The one-two punch of these two amino acids has many health benefits, not the least of which is protection against the development of diabetes. Studies show that L-arginine supplementation is beneficial in regulating glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity.
While you might not be able to get as much of the amino acid from watermelon as you might through supplementation, it is noting that foods that contain this compound can be a beneficial part of a diet designed to fight against diabetes.
A Healthier Heart
Watermelon is rich in an amino acid called citrulline that may help move blood through your body and can lower your blood pressure.
Your heart also enjoys the healthy perks of all the lycopene watermelon contains.
Studies show that it may also lower your risk of heart attacks. All this from a little black seed.
